INEC Investigates Irregularities in Preliminary Voter Register

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) announced that the preliminary register of voters published on its website is not the final certified register. INEC is currently investigating irregularities, including suspected AI-generated photographs.

Mohammed Haruna, the Chairman of INEC’s Information and Voter Education Committee, confirmed that the commission is reviewing questionable registration records and will take corrective action before certifying the final register on December 15, 2026. The preliminary register was displayed physically at Registration Areas nationwide from October 9 to 15 and was published online on October 26.

Haruna emphasized that the online publication does not reflect ongoing data-cleanup activities. The commission is also examining the circumstances surrounding the suspicious photographs and will take appropriate action based on verified findings.

Haruna commended citizens and stakeholders for their vigilance in identifying anomalies, stating that public scrutiny is vital for maintaining the accuracy and integrity of the voters’ register.